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Ganymede Quartet #2
A Proper Lover
What does it mean to belong to someone? Henry Blackwell is the happiest he’s ever been, and it’s all because of his companion slave Martin. Every experience, whether it be mundane or spectacular, is improved by having Martin at his side. The better Henry gets to know his slave, the deeper his feelings grow. Though the physical attraction between them is undeniable, Henry’s sure there’s more to their relationship than just sex. He can’t be certain, as it’s never happened before, but he believes he might be falling in love. Henry’s friends are ready and willing to put their own slaves aside in favor of female companionship, and they’re beginning to wonder why Henry isn’t interested in girls. Henry only wants to be with Martin and doesn’t know how much longer he can use “late bloomer” as an excuse. The holiday season approaches, along with the promise of parties with friends and family. Henry doesn’t want to share Martin with his friends, but he doesn’t like being left out. Will he stand up for himself—and Martin—when it counts? This is the second of four installments in the Ganymede Quartet, continuing Henry & Martin’s story from A Most Personal Property (Ganymede Quartet Book 1).
478 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 16, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
November 15, 2015
This is a good series, but it isn't a series I would like to read on a row. This is quite the slow-paced love story. Pride and Prejudice with boys. And that's fine as it is.
As in the book #1, we only have Henry's POV. I would like to know more about Martin's thoughts, although in truth Martin speaks his mind more often than not. But he is so nice and so well-mannered sometimes I'm left with the feeling that he doesn't show himself in his totality. Which is understandable, because he is the slave after all. But I'm not fair on him, he's open in his feelings, he just has to say them out loud. But it's not the right time yet.
Henry is developing feelings for Martin, but he doesn't know for sure if he can call it love. And if it was, it would be an impossible situation, right? It's not as if he could say it to Martin. Because of the society, because of the power it would mean to give to Martin, and he is not ready to bare his soul without the assurance that Martin feels the same. So for now it's better to be cautious and in the meanwhile, he can enjoy their friendship and closeness.
The relationship continues the rhythm of the first book, everyday is taken advantage of. Days just don't go on, each one of them is important and as such, there is always something to tell. It's close to a diary than an actual novel, because everything is displayed, as innocuous at it all seems at first.
But truth is, lots of things happen.
1) We go to parties and how Henry is excluded from most of them , which makes him feel sad but not enough because he can invest that time in Martin. And they don't waste any time. They are 16 but very imaginative. They make competitions and dares and cute things, too. Henry feels very possessive and can't let anyone else have Martin, which is fine by me.
2) There are scandals and disgraces concerning Henry's friends' families that bring embarrassment and conflicts, too. For instance, Louis' older brother, James, has a slip. And another one of this friends have problems, too, which arises the slaves' fears and, by extension, Martin's. But Henry is not going to allow anything to hurt Martin.
3) And at Martin's proposal, Henry begins seeing Cora more often, but with the side effect that she loves Martin more than him. I was hoping I would see more of Henry's father, if only that despite him being so distant and cold he truly cares for Henry, as Martin states. I'm curious about what happened with Uncle Reggie but it's obvious it's not as much as a mystery.
4) We get to know Henry's mother's family at last, and it's a large family indeed. I hope we get to see more of them because the encounter was shocking at least and very revealing. I truly did not expect such decadence in a constricted society, but of course, looks can be deceiving.
5) And we finally meet, and I say finally because it's an interesting turn that this character we had heard a lot about appears, if just for a short while: . He is probably going to become an ally, one that Henry needs because he has no one else to share his fears and doubts with.
All in all, it's quite deceiving because we don't get far from Henry and Martin. They are the center of this world and little interference comes form outside, or that's what they make us think. In truth it's a long book and there is time for other characters to act and influence them. Sometimes they are just anecdotes, sometimes they are something more important. Other times, it changes it all. But the gypsy woman's visions haven't come true yet, but I've learnt that fortune tellers in books are always right.
As in the book #1, we only have Henry's POV. I would like to know more about Martin's thoughts, although in truth Martin speaks his mind more often than not. But he is so nice and so well-mannered sometimes I'm left with the feeling that he doesn't show himself in his totality. Which is understandable, because he is the slave after all. But I'm not fair on him, he's open in his feelings, he just has to say them out loud. But it's not the right time yet.
Henry is developing feelings for Martin, but he doesn't know for sure if he can call it love. And if it was, it would be an impossible situation, right? It's not as if he could say it to Martin. Because of the society, because of the power it would mean to give to Martin, and he is not ready to bare his soul without the assurance that Martin feels the same. So for now it's better to be cautious and in the meanwhile, he can enjoy their friendship and closeness.
The relationship continues the rhythm of the first book, everyday is taken advantage of. Days just don't go on, each one of them is important and as such, there is always something to tell. It's close to a diary than an actual novel, because everything is displayed, as innocuous at it all seems at first.
But truth is, lots of things happen.
1) We go to parties and how Henry is excluded from most of them , which makes him feel sad but not enough because he can invest that time in Martin. And they don't waste any time. They are 16 but very imaginative. They make competitions and dares and cute things, too. Henry feels very possessive and can't let anyone else have Martin, which is fine by me.
2) There are scandals and disgraces concerning Henry's friends' families that bring embarrassment and conflicts, too. For instance, Louis' older brother, James, has a slip. And another one of this friends have problems, too, which arises the slaves' fears and, by extension, Martin's. But Henry is not going to allow anything to hurt Martin.
3) And at Martin's proposal, Henry begins seeing Cora more often, but with the side effect that she loves Martin more than him. I was hoping I would see more of Henry's father, if only that despite him being so distant and cold he truly cares for Henry, as Martin states. I'm curious about what happened with Uncle Reggie but it's obvious it's not as much as a mystery.
4) We get to know Henry's mother's family at last, and it's a large family indeed. I hope we get to see more of them because the encounter was shocking at least and very revealing. I truly did not expect such decadence in a constricted society, but of course, looks can be deceiving.
5) And we finally meet, and I say finally because it's an interesting turn that this character we had heard a lot about appears, if just for a short while: . He is probably going to become an ally, one that Henry needs because he has no one else to share his fears and doubts with.
All in all, it's quite deceiving because we don't get far from Henry and Martin. They are the center of this world and little interference comes form outside, or that's what they make us think. In truth it's a long book and there is time for other characters to act and influence them. Sometimes they are just anecdotes, sometimes they are something more important. Other times, it changes it all. But the gypsy woman's visions haven't come true yet, but I've learnt that fortune tellers in books are always right.
January 5, 2015
Gah! How am I gonna make it til March?
I'll tell you I thought I really liked the first one. Well, like turned to love in this one. I confess I was a tad disappointed when I started this one to find that it picked up right where A Most Personal Property left off, but then I made a decision. Ms. Glass and I need to come to an understanding. A quartet is no longer sufficient. I'd like something in the twenty book range so I can see these two as adults because Henry is going to be an outstanding adult. Outstanding, I say! So, name your price Glass. Let's get this thing done.
Henry and Martin are falling in A Proper Lover. This is a first for Henry and he's not quite sure what he's feeling. He knows he wants to shower Martin with affection, wants to be with him all the time, desperately wants to spend time together as a couple complete with PDAs. Henry's one of my favorite characters. He doesn't have a high opinion of himself and I like him for all his foibles and shortcomings. He's possessive, fussy, jealous, is a bit of a snob yet has simple tastes and is what my grandmother calls tenderhearted. He also loves food especially cake. I laughed so hard when he growled over the macaroni and cheese! Who can blame him? Good mac and cheese when the cheese is maybe a little burnt around the edges… mmmmmmhhhhhmmmmmm. I feel ya, Henry. He thinks himself a dullard and boorish whereas I see him as sheltered and largely shunned by his parents. He's had no real guidance but picks things up quickly. He's deliberate and thoughtful, and does have a certain childlike naiveté that endears him to me all the more which I hope he retains. He's mainly only felt loved by the slaves in his house so it's really no surprise that he should fall in love with his own.
Martin fell asleep first, his breath soft and regular against Henry's throat. Henry stroked Martin's hair back from his forehead, ran his thumb over Martin's eyebrow, kissed the places he'd touched. Martin made a kittenish sound in his sleep and nestled closer. Henry resisted the urge to crush him to his chest, he didn't want to wake him, only claim and keep him.
If being queer during the Gilded Age is abhorrent, you can imagine being in love with one's own slave compounds the problem tenfold. The overwhelming amount of oppression in this society is both daunting and romantic-all that sneaking around and secret looks. Meow. Then again, it strikes me as appallingly hypocritical for a society to sanction boys using their slaves for "release" and "their health", yet condemn homosexuality. If Henry and Martin could just find other boys like them, somewhere they can be accepted. I'm hopeful Uncle Reggie and maybe the bohemian cousin can help so they're not so cloistered all the time. I actually think some of Henry's friends are gay or at least bi, but the only way for Henry to find out is through one of their swap parties/orgies and Henry ain't swapping Martin. Also, Henry's not comfortable speaking up for himself or being the center of attention. He wants to fit in and not be outcast; but the trouble is for Henry to truly fit in he'll have to swap Martin. Definitely a pickle. A sour pickle.
I'm going to go out on the limb here and say I think Henry would be willing to see Martin with another slave, but not his friends, and I think he'd require a certain amount of control over the scene. Henry's a voyeur and he has some other kinks which I'm hoping get explored more in the next books along with Henry's butt. Henry's butt needs exploring and Martin is DYING to plant the flag. However, first and foremost, he's possessive, protective and in love with Martin. I can't see him ever being intimate with someone else. He's far too loyal for that, but I suppose time will tell. At any rate, in A Proper Slave these two are just as randy as… well, a couple a teenage boys. They even have a contest to see if they can set a record. Martin's doing. He's the competitive one. Henry just likes being with Martin and making him happy.
A Proper Lover is told entirely through Henry, but I believe Martin feels the same or is at least in the same neighborhood as Henry, but his status precludes him verbalizing it. Martin's a good influence on Henry, encouraging him to open up to others especially Cora. Cora who is a delight! She's a 7 yr old little tyrant princess. And boy, does she ever have a crush on Martin! She makes no secret of wanting to have a boy slave or a cache of them when she comes of age. She's a girl after my own heart. Yet another reason I'd like twentyish books rather than four so I can see this! She's going to be a force. She's outgoing, imperious and effervescent, quite the opposite of Henry.
"I can't have a boy slave," Cora complained, "and I can't marry Martin, I can't have anything I want!"
Cora and Louis fulfilled the comic relief quotients in spades, though I'm still a little pissed at Louis right now. He needs to get his head out of his ass. The secondary characters pushed the story forward and are fleshing out Henry and this world little by little. It seems clear Nurse understands Henry's preferences; they have some poignant moments that made my heart happy to know someone in his life loves him unconditionally. His father possibly has an inkling which may have precipitated the Uncle Reggie thing. I'm anxious to find out more about Reggie. I'm hoping he'll help Henry be less self-conscious. Even James, Louis' older brother, who's seemingly out of control is intriguing. What's happening there? Something ain't right with that kid. There's so much I still want to know! No way two more books is going to be sufficient. C'mon Glass! Throw a girl a bone or twenty.
The writing is as superb, evocative and delectable as A Most Personal Property. I found this one to be less wordy than the first, and despite it's page count I found it to be a quick read though I might be a teensy bit biased.
One final note: Someone needs to do something about that Adam Pettibone otherwise I'll have no choice but to jump in to this story and have words with him. Pettibone, I can promise you you won't like my words. No one little bit. *glares*
December 19, 2014
First let me say that this series is one of my desert island reads. There is so much in it, so much detail, lush description, nuance of language, and a fully realized world that I could roll around in it for ages. It feels and reads so real to me, but I still want more, more, MORE. If I did indeed take this series with me on an ill-fated trip to a desert island, I'd end up scribbling fanfiction for it in the sand and trying to convince myself that the waves were reading it as they lapped it away little by little.
IN OTHER WORDS, I LOVE THIS BOOK/SERIES!!!!
Anywho, in this continuation of Martin & Henry's story the things I loved the most include:
a) the extra information we get about the slaves' lives and belief systems.
b) the way that Martin's influence on Henry is unmuddling his brain just enough for him to start wondering how he feels
c) the pure adolescent angst of Henry, the fact that he can't get out of his own mind long enough to see the world as it really is around him,
d) the sweet, desperation to love and be loved
e) the crushing fear that a discovery of his real self (in so many ways--real feelings, real thoughts, real fears, real abilities) would result in no one loving him at all
f) seeing more of Cora and learning about her
g) Oh, Louis! You gross, jerky asshole! I love you!
h) Oh, James! YOU ASSHOLE! I HATE YOU! (But I love hating you.)
i) Halloween! So fascinating! Such a really cool way to make those scenes play out!
j) REGGIE!! This is so exciting! An ally? Someone to confide in?
k) Nurse. <3
l) The ongoing trials of Latin.
m) Henry's attempts at being a proper lover. :D Oh, Henry.
n) the hot sex!
o) the obvious research put into replicating and then distorting 1900 in such a remarkably seamless way.
Henry is such a beautiful, befuddled boy. He's so...HENRY. I want to shake him and love him and pet him and shake him again and then just groan in amused desperation at his dumbbuttery.
I also love Martin, as always. His earnest desire to be what Henry wants and needs while still getting what he wants and needs for himself--despite what he's been told he "should" do. Oh, Martin. I love his eagerness and playfulness, his competitive spirit, his joie de vivre, and his patience. I could use some of Martin's patience. But my favorite times are when Martin shows his imperfectness (in terms of subjugation and slavery) and gets angry at Henry or sharp or lets his frustrations and hurt show through. Sometimes Martin is so good at his slave job that it is good to be reminded he's an adolescent boy under all that perfection, too.
*happy sigh*
I dunno, guys. I just love this series so much. I love that there is so much of it to wallow in. AND MORE TO COME! Their story isn't over yet! *bounces* Yesssssss!!!
IN OTHER WORDS, I LOVE THIS BOOK/SERIES!!!!
Anywho, in this continuation of Martin & Henry's story the things I loved the most include:
a) the extra information we get about the slaves' lives and belief systems.
b) the way that Martin's influence on Henry is unmuddling his brain just enough for him to start wondering how he feels
c) the pure adolescent angst of Henry, the fact that he can't get out of his own mind long enough to see the world as it really is around him,
d) the sweet, desperation to love and be loved
e) the crushing fear that a discovery of his real self (in so many ways--real feelings, real thoughts, real fears, real abilities) would result in no one loving him at all
f) seeing more of Cora and learning about her
g) Oh, Louis! You gross, jerky asshole! I love you!
h) Oh, James! YOU ASSHOLE! I HATE YOU! (But I love hating you.)
i) Halloween! So fascinating! Such a really cool way to make those scenes play out!
j) REGGIE!! This is so exciting! An ally? Someone to confide in?
k) Nurse. <3
l) The ongoing trials of Latin.
m) Henry's attempts at being a proper lover. :D Oh, Henry.
n) the hot sex!
o) the obvious research put into replicating and then distorting 1900 in such a remarkably seamless way.
Henry is such a beautiful, befuddled boy. He's so...HENRY. I want to shake him and love him and pet him and shake him again and then just groan in amused desperation at his dumbbuttery.
I also love Martin, as always. His earnest desire to be what Henry wants and needs while still getting what he wants and needs for himself--despite what he's been told he "should" do. Oh, Martin. I love his eagerness and playfulness, his competitive spirit, his joie de vivre, and his patience. I could use some of Martin's patience. But my favorite times are when Martin shows his imperfectness (in terms of subjugation and slavery) and gets angry at Henry or sharp or lets his frustrations and hurt show through. Sometimes Martin is so good at his slave job that it is good to be reminded he's an adolescent boy under all that perfection, too.
*happy sigh*
I dunno, guys. I just love this series so much. I love that there is so much of it to wallow in. AND MORE TO COME! Their story isn't over yet! *bounces* Yesssssss!!!
December 19, 2014
This book is the second in a series of alt history/historical books where slavery still exists in the year 1900, and wealthy people purchase same-sex slaves for their adolescent children, so-called "companion" slaves, to allow for disgorgement of sexual tension in a "healthy manner." The protagonists are teen boys, but this is an ADULT book. There is boatloads of graphic gay sex, which doesn't trouble me a whit. You are hereby warned.
Here's what I love about these books: the love.
Henry Blackwell is the son, and heir, of the richest man in NYC in 1900. He also has an "unnatural" attraction to his companion slave, Martin. They engage in sex whenever and wherever possible. It's socially acceptable for Henry to use Martin, but not to kiss him, or to ensure that Martin is satisfied. No, proper slave owners simply take their own pleasure and pay no heed to their slaves wishes, or comfort.
But, that isn't Henry.
He adores Martin, and spoils him whenever possible. Part of Henry's generosity comes from his own father's egalitarian example: the Blackwell slaves are some of the most respected on account of their fair treatment. The rest? Henry craves affection. His mother and father are extremely distant parents. The only real love Henry has ever known has come from the slaves of the house and his Uncle Reggie, who moved to Italy nearly a decade ago. And Martin seems more than acceptably affectionate with Henry, too.
Though they have only had sexual relations for a few weeks Henry is sure he loves Martin. This he hides deep inside. It's hard enough wondering if Martin could return his sentiment, but fearing a luke-warm reception to his fervor keeps Henry from revealing his true feelings--at least verbally. The boys spend a lot of time physically demonstrating their passion.
Before this time Martin believed Henry had no interest in him, and even cast some "slave magic" spells to attract Henry's regard. Martin confides this to Henry, who endeavors to demonstrate that his love for Martin is not of the magical variety.
The book is so fun. I love the historical setting, and the deepening of the relationship between Henry and Martin. It is for Martin that Henry breaks through his shell, and endeavors to be a better student and brother.
All of Henry's friends regularly share their slaves, trading sexual favors like one might hand off a piece of gum to a pal. Henry abhors this idea, though he gets drawn in inadvertently, leaving open the question of fidelity for one's slave.
I'm so glad it ended how it had! And, I look forward to book three most eagerly.
I received an ARC of this book because I'm a super fangirl and begged the author.
Here's what I love about these books: the love.
Henry Blackwell is the son, and heir, of the richest man in NYC in 1900. He also has an "unnatural" attraction to his companion slave, Martin. They engage in sex whenever and wherever possible. It's socially acceptable for Henry to use Martin, but not to kiss him, or to ensure that Martin is satisfied. No, proper slave owners simply take their own pleasure and pay no heed to their slaves wishes, or comfort.
But, that isn't Henry.
He adores Martin, and spoils him whenever possible. Part of Henry's generosity comes from his own father's egalitarian example: the Blackwell slaves are some of the most respected on account of their fair treatment. The rest? Henry craves affection. His mother and father are extremely distant parents. The only real love Henry has ever known has come from the slaves of the house and his Uncle Reggie, who moved to Italy nearly a decade ago. And Martin seems more than acceptably affectionate with Henry, too.
Though they have only had sexual relations for a few weeks Henry is sure he loves Martin. This he hides deep inside. It's hard enough wondering if Martin could return his sentiment, but fearing a luke-warm reception to his fervor keeps Henry from revealing his true feelings--at least verbally. The boys spend a lot of time physically demonstrating their passion.
Before this time Martin believed Henry had no interest in him, and even cast some "slave magic" spells to attract Henry's regard. Martin confides this to Henry, who endeavors to demonstrate that his love for Martin is not of the magical variety.
The book is so fun. I love the historical setting, and the deepening of the relationship between Henry and Martin. It is for Martin that Henry breaks through his shell, and endeavors to be a better student and brother.
All of Henry's friends regularly share their slaves, trading sexual favors like one might hand off a piece of gum to a pal. Henry abhors this idea, though he gets drawn in inadvertently, leaving open the question of fidelity for one's slave.
I'm so glad it ended how it had! And, I look forward to book three most eagerly.
I received an ARC of this book because I'm a super fangirl and begged the author.
October 13, 2015
There was no way after reading A Most Personal Property that I would not love reading more about Henry and Martin. Although I knew I'd be sucked into the story I was still surprised by how much I was. This is one of those stories where there are no murders, no major breakups or arguments, no major angst really but the characters, their friendships and their everyday activities are just so engaging that you find yourself so involved and needing to read that little bit more.
This story had a steady stream of sex scenes, which I really appreciated. Still similar to the first book that it's Henry discovering sex and exploring things with Martin, so there were some fun dirty talking and fantasy scenes ( I love Martin) but most of the sex was very emotional and tender due to Henry working out his feelings for Martin.
Didn't end in a cliffhanger but I'm soooo anxious to see how little problems that are mentioned throughout the book are resolved. I got a little nervous about the party at the end, but can breath easy for now :-) I'm glad A Master's Fidelity was written. Off to read that now.
This story had a steady stream of sex scenes, which I really appreciated. Still similar to the first book that it's Henry discovering sex and exploring things with Martin, so there were some fun dirty talking and fantasy scenes ( I love Martin) but most of the sex was very emotional and tender due to Henry working out his feelings for Martin.
Didn't end in a cliffhanger but I'm soooo anxious to see how little problems that are mentioned throughout the book are resolved. I got a little nervous about the party at the end, but can breath easy for now :-) I'm glad A Master's Fidelity was written. Off to read that now.
January 11, 2015
This was the first book I read this year. It put the standarts high for every other book crossing my path in future.
I'm too tired to write a review that would do this book and this series justice. I so love Henry and Martin. I like that there is very little troublewith them and the trouble they face is moderated. YET as I read even the happy times between the young master and his highly valued slave, I feel a constant thread. Something is about to burst their bubble. That is so brilliant and addictive.
Love how Darrah studies the issue of slavery in the series. It is what it is, but we are shown so many sides of it that it feels real. And heartbreaking. And makes methink of the hidden slavery in the modern world we live in. Damn this series for making me think outside of the happy bubble!
*having a fangirlmoment here*
I'm too tired to write a review that would do this book and this series justice. I so love Henry and Martin. I like that there is very little troublewith them and the trouble they face is moderated. YET as I read even the happy times between the young master and his highly valued slave, I feel a constant thread. Something is about to burst their bubble. That is so brilliant and addictive.
Love how Darrah studies the issue of slavery in the series. It is what it is, but we are shown so many sides of it that it feels real. And heartbreaking. And makes methink of the hidden slavery in the modern world we live in. Damn this series for making me think outside of the happy bubble!
*having a fangirlmoment here*
December 24, 2015
More on the story of young Henry and his slave Martin. Here, we have more conflict with his schoolmates, created by Henry's lack of interest in women, and his fierce protection of Martin.
Not much at all happens in large sections of the book. We have tons of sex, some of which is hot, but even that gets repetitive. We also have long excerpts of a serialized novel they are reading. This does not move the story forward at all.
There are several scenes with the younger sister and with the mother's family.
I will continue to read this series just to see what happens next.
Not much at all happens in large sections of the book. We have tons of sex, some of which is hot, but even that gets repetitive. We also have long excerpts of a serialized novel they are reading. This does not move the story forward at all.
There are several scenes with the younger sister and with the mother's family.
I will continue to read this series just to see what happens next.
December 30, 2014
Nothing short of perfect, 'A Proper Lover' continues the Ganymede series. It is impossible to put down as the growing relationship between Henry and his companion slave Martin unfolds over their Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.
The beauty of the language sweeps the story along in a cocktail of Henry's continued angst and Martin's beurgoning confidence. Henry continues to consider the world of social expectations and finds himself wishing for acceptance and concerned that his greatest secret will become exposed.
As expected, my life went on hold as I read this story (I found myself sleepless and reading until 3am just to know what might happen next).
The story is exquisite in its detail of Henry's inner thoughts, his hopes and wishes and his anxiety that perhaps he does not have the competency and skill to be the person that he wants to be both for his own sake, and that of his own slave Martin.
Henry is cautious of expressing his opinions in case they are rejected or ill founded, however as the novel progresses. he can see missed opportunities where his opinions may have proved helpful. Henry also learns of decisions taken by friends and family that with the benefit of hindsight could have been handled more effectively.
It seems that his growing insight may indeed help Henry to overcome his insecurity and to take personal responsibility and some initiative to make his world a better place for himself and those he cares about.
With the relatively recent arrival of Martin into his life Henry begins to understand and appreciate that support can be given and sought in the most unlikely quarters. His passion and love for Martin is growing and Henry considers whether he can be truly open with Martin about the depth of his feelings. He learns gradually that Martin's regard for him appears undiminished even when certain flaws (such as ineptitude for Latin) are discovered.
What I particularly liked in this story is the growing confidence that Martin develops in sharing more of himself with Henry - his language and attitudes adjust, allowing himself opportunities to show frustration and disappointment as well as joy and affection. Gone is the slightly unctuous Martin and in his place is a man willing to take risks and to share with his master even if that sometimes puts him at odds with others in his life.
The sex life shared between the protagonists is both ribald and joyful and when they set themselves a task of creating a personal record of sexual encounters in one day the results are both hot and endearing as personality quirks and personal preferences shine through.
Martin and Henry's characters are well drawn out as are those of their friends and family and new opportunities are provided for Henry to develop new and old connections and to consider whether he wishes to abide within the boundaries of conformity and expectation.
The Ganymede series is a great coming of age story filled with the joys and angst of life, love and acceptance.
I was given a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. It is definitely one of my reading highlights of the year, and I look forward eagerly to the next installment.
The beauty of the language sweeps the story along in a cocktail of Henry's continued angst and Martin's beurgoning confidence. Henry continues to consider the world of social expectations and finds himself wishing for acceptance and concerned that his greatest secret will become exposed.
As expected, my life went on hold as I read this story (I found myself sleepless and reading until 3am just to know what might happen next).
The story is exquisite in its detail of Henry's inner thoughts, his hopes and wishes and his anxiety that perhaps he does not have the competency and skill to be the person that he wants to be both for his own sake, and that of his own slave Martin.
Henry is cautious of expressing his opinions in case they are rejected or ill founded, however as the novel progresses. he can see missed opportunities where his opinions may have proved helpful. Henry also learns of decisions taken by friends and family that with the benefit of hindsight could have been handled more effectively.
It seems that his growing insight may indeed help Henry to overcome his insecurity and to take personal responsibility and some initiative to make his world a better place for himself and those he cares about.
With the relatively recent arrival of Martin into his life Henry begins to understand and appreciate that support can be given and sought in the most unlikely quarters. His passion and love for Martin is growing and Henry considers whether he can be truly open with Martin about the depth of his feelings. He learns gradually that Martin's regard for him appears undiminished even when certain flaws (such as ineptitude for Latin) are discovered.
What I particularly liked in this story is the growing confidence that Martin develops in sharing more of himself with Henry - his language and attitudes adjust, allowing himself opportunities to show frustration and disappointment as well as joy and affection. Gone is the slightly unctuous Martin and in his place is a man willing to take risks and to share with his master even if that sometimes puts him at odds with others in his life.
The sex life shared between the protagonists is both ribald and joyful and when they set themselves a task of creating a personal record of sexual encounters in one day the results are both hot and endearing as personality quirks and personal preferences shine through.
Martin and Henry's characters are well drawn out as are those of their friends and family and new opportunities are provided for Henry to develop new and old connections and to consider whether he wishes to abide within the boundaries of conformity and expectation.
The Ganymede series is a great coming of age story filled with the joys and angst of life, love and acceptance.
I was given a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. It is definitely one of my reading highlights of the year, and I look forward eagerly to the next installment.
January 26, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
A Proper Lover continues the story of Martin and Henry, who I totally fell in love with during the first book in the Ganymede series, A Most Personal Property. It picks up right at the end of the first book and continues following along with the young men as they head into the holiday season. I really am crazy about this world Glass has created here. I love the mix of alternate world where slavery is legal, combined with the real historical elements of New York at the turn of the 20th century. We see Henry and Martin at a vaudeville show, the penny arcade, riding horses in Central Park, and lots of other activities that really give a nice feel for the time period. I love the way the slavery elements are incorporated here, woven in with the story in a way that makes it all feel so real. Glass has such an interesting take on the master/slave trope and I continue to find it really fascinating.
I also continue to love Martin and Henry. They are so sweet and earnest and clearly so adoring of one another. I love that Henry is opening his eyes to the rest of the world, after being complacent for so long. Owning Martin and caring what happens to him has made Henry much more aware of the world around him and much more concerned about other people. He is still on the lazy end and doesn’t try so hard, and doesn’t really care that he is not super smart or motivated. For some reason I find that kind of charming. He knows Martin is better than him in pretty much every way, and rather than resenting Martin, he cherishes him for it. And Martin is of course so sweet and kind and loving. Perhaps a bit unrealistically perfect, but as we see him through Henry’s adoring eyes, that kind of makes sense. I am really enjoying them together and seeing their relationship progress.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
A Proper Lover continues the story of Martin and Henry, who I totally fell in love with during the first book in the Ganymede series, A Most Personal Property. It picks up right at the end of the first book and continues following along with the young men as they head into the holiday season. I really am crazy about this world Glass has created here. I love the mix of alternate world where slavery is legal, combined with the real historical elements of New York at the turn of the 20th century. We see Henry and Martin at a vaudeville show, the penny arcade, riding horses in Central Park, and lots of other activities that really give a nice feel for the time period. I love the way the slavery elements are incorporated here, woven in with the story in a way that makes it all feel so real. Glass has such an interesting take on the master/slave trope and I continue to find it really fascinating.
I also continue to love Martin and Henry. They are so sweet and earnest and clearly so adoring of one another. I love that Henry is opening his eyes to the rest of the world, after being complacent for so long. Owning Martin and caring what happens to him has made Henry much more aware of the world around him and much more concerned about other people. He is still on the lazy end and doesn’t try so hard, and doesn’t really care that he is not super smart or motivated. For some reason I find that kind of charming. He knows Martin is better than him in pretty much every way, and rather than resenting Martin, he cherishes him for it. And Martin is of course so sweet and kind and loving. Perhaps a bit unrealistically perfect, but as we see him through Henry’s adoring eyes, that kind of makes sense. I am really enjoying them together and seeing their relationship progress.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
March 26, 2015
This is a great expansion of the world of the first Book and a half. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. It is relatively inexpensive, and I definitely would recommend the series. I enjoy Henry more in this book, even though many times in both this and Book 1 I wanted to reach into the book and throttle him. Martin is Martin, nothing more need be said. The character's are great, and it has a great concept, and great (and very frequent) intimate scenes. I am anxiously awaiting book 3 of the series.
February 25, 2015
I so adore Henry and Martin. Darrah's writing of these two guys makes me feel what they are feeling in their hearts and souls for each other. This story gives us more insight of whats going on in their lives and how they are handling, or not handling in some instances, it themselves.
I loooved getting to know Cora, hearing about Timothy's background, and seeing the boys love grow for each other truly show.
I cannot wait to see what happens next.
I loooved getting to know Cora, hearing about Timothy's background, and seeing the boys love grow for each other truly show.
I cannot wait to see what happens next.
December 19, 2014
This series is absolutely wonderful! Though I much prefer Martin's perspective to that of Henry's who at times I just want to throttle. I am excited for the next book to see the rest of their adventure!
January 11, 2015
I absolutely love this series!!!! The more I read, the more I love Henry and Martin and the less I like Louis and James Briggs. I can hardly wait until March for the third installment.
December 27, 2014
I love the Ganymeade Quartet series
I love the story between Henry and Martin. It is a very sweet love story. I can't wait to read more.
I love the story between Henry and Martin. It is a very sweet love story. I can't wait to read more.
February 10, 2015
I do so adore me some Martin and Henry. ;) <3
See my full review at The Novel Approach Reviews! http://thenovelapproachreviews.com/20...
See my full review at The Novel Approach Reviews! http://thenovelapproachreviews.com/20...
August 10, 2015
I have to say, I was so looking forward to this book after reading the blurb! While I knew how Henry really felt towards Martin, I was wondering how he was going to play it off with his friends.
This book started out with a bang, I suppose you can say. With the meeting that happened with Henry, his father and Timothy, I was almost in tears. Which, while normally I say that’s a good thing that an author can move me to tears, I wasn’t prepared for it to happen so quickly.
Glass once again blew me away with this story. While the novel is long, it didn’t feel like that at all while reading it. I was so drawn into the story and the world that Glass created, that I didn’t even pay attention to the page count.
I do want to add this though, if one of your holdbacks on reading this series is the size of the novels, trust me – completely worth it! This is not like other long novels where it seems to be filled with unneeded sex scenes, or just extra information that was not needed, but it all added to the story.
Also, I want to admit that I really enjoyed the “story time” that Martin and Henry had together. At the beginning of the story being introduced, I was a bit unsure how I felt about it. But as the story progressed, I loved that little bit that was added. And I love that Glass kept it going. That was part of what drew the two of them together, and I really enjoy how it was still going strong throughout this book.
I do not feel as though this is a standalone book. While I can see you reading it and being able to understand what is going on, you would miss out on so much of the beginning of the relationship between Henry and Martin.
Once again, I can’t get enough of this series and I can’t wait to read more!
Reviewed by Crystal Marie for Crystal’s Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for review*
This book started out with a bang, I suppose you can say. With the meeting that happened with Henry, his father and Timothy, I was almost in tears. Which, while normally I say that’s a good thing that an author can move me to tears, I wasn’t prepared for it to happen so quickly.
Glass once again blew me away with this story. While the novel is long, it didn’t feel like that at all while reading it. I was so drawn into the story and the world that Glass created, that I didn’t even pay attention to the page count.
I do want to add this though, if one of your holdbacks on reading this series is the size of the novels, trust me – completely worth it! This is not like other long novels where it seems to be filled with unneeded sex scenes, or just extra information that was not needed, but it all added to the story.
Also, I want to admit that I really enjoyed the “story time” that Martin and Henry had together. At the beginning of the story being introduced, I was a bit unsure how I felt about it. But as the story progressed, I loved that little bit that was added. And I love that Glass kept it going. That was part of what drew the two of them together, and I really enjoy how it was still going strong throughout this book.
I do not feel as though this is a standalone book. While I can see you reading it and being able to understand what is going on, you would miss out on so much of the beginning of the relationship between Henry and Martin.
Once again, I can’t get enough of this series and I can’t wait to read more!
Reviewed by Crystal Marie for Crystal’s Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for review*
January 15, 2017
Henry and Martin's unique relationship continue in this book... though we still just get the story mostly from Henry's point of view.
We did get a little insight of what some of the other slaves have to deal when Martin and Peter, Louis' slave, helped Louise feel better with a little slave gossip and again when Henry asked Martin straight out about how some of the slaves... but not as much as I wanted... yes I'm spoiled, I want to be in everyone's lives... lol
But I did like how we got to meet some of Henry's family from his mother's side, especially the uncle he loves Reggie... he's back. That reunion opened a lot of doors for Henry and gave a brief insight into Henry's father head... I kind of think that Henry's father knows the truth about Henry and is okay with it... but since they are still so distant from each other its hard tor tell.
I still wish we got a little more from Martin and my kinky side kind of wish Henry liked to swap slaves (yes I can be very kinky and perverted) but even without that its a good and interesting story. Off to read book 3
We did get a little insight of what some of the other slaves have to deal when Martin and Peter, Louis' slave, helped Louise feel better with a little slave gossip and again when Henry asked Martin straight out about how some of the slaves... but not as much as I wanted... yes I'm spoiled, I want to be in everyone's lives... lol
But I did like how we got to meet some of Henry's family from his mother's side, especially the uncle he loves Reggie... he's back. That reunion opened a lot of doors for Henry and gave a brief insight into Henry's father head... I kind of think that Henry's father knows the truth about Henry and is okay with it... but since they are still so distant from each other its hard tor tell.
I still wish we got a little more from Martin and my kinky side kind of wish Henry liked to swap slaves (yes I can be very kinky and perverted) but even without that its a good and interesting story. Off to read book 3
August 4, 2015
4 stars for the entire series, 3 for this particular segment
Plot: Nothing gritty, really. It's more of a slice of life in a fantastically different world, different culture.
Length: This series is shaping up as a very lengthy one. This is great because everything is described in detail and nothing is rushed. However it does give the impression that nothing much happens a lot. Which is understandable given the romance is the major focus, but an unfortunate result all the same.
Henry's Latin: I love Henry, I do, but like his father, I want to strangle him over his Latin. He's aware it's a problem, but he's so avoidant. Thanks be for Martin. The culture behind the solution is interesting, though if Martin's always going to be serving Henry, his knowledge is Henry's knowledge.
Slave religion: Great addition, and fascinating in detail.
Sexing: Similarly gratuitous, steamy
Plot: Nothing gritty, really. It's more of a slice of life in a fantastically different world, different culture.
Length: This series is shaping up as a very lengthy one. This is great because everything is described in detail and nothing is rushed. However it does give the impression that nothing much happens a lot. Which is understandable given the romance is the major focus, but an unfortunate result all the same.
Henry's Latin: I love Henry, I do, but like his father, I want to strangle him over his Latin. He's aware it's a problem, but he's so avoidant. Thanks be for Martin. The culture behind the solution is interesting, though if Martin's always going to be serving Henry, his knowledge is Henry's knowledge.
Slave religion: Great addition, and fascinating in detail.
Sexing: Similarly gratuitous, steamy
June 8, 2017
I'm really enjoying this series but I'm more interested in the story line and feel there's too much sex. Also Henry's lack of ambition is starting to get on my nerves.
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